The Australian Defence Force's new AI-driven weapons are raising ethical concerns.

The ADF has unveiled advanced robotic systems, including self-flying drones, robotic combat vehicles, uncrewed tanks, and a robot dog for clearing landmines. 

While these weapons are not fully autonomous and require human input, their development signals increasing AI integration in military operations.

Lieutenant Colonel Adam Hepworth, Director of Robotic and Autonomous Systems, says AI has applications both in administration and frontline combat. 

“We see a range of uses for AI... on the coalface of war,” he told reporters. 

However, he says there is a need for human oversight. 

“Every system… has to go through a legal review to meet domestic and international obligations,” he said. 

However, experts and human rights advocates demand stricter regulations. 

Professor Toby Walsh, Chief Scientist at the University of New South Wales’s AI Institute, said the ADF’s showcase left him “impressed” but also “quite nervous”. 

He described AI as a "double-edged sword", pointing to positive applications like mine-clearing robots. 

“Handing over decision-making to algorithms is going to take us to a very dark, very dangerous place,” he warned. 

Walsh added that software vulnerabilities could enable modifications that turn semi-autonomous systems into fully autonomous weapons.

Human Rights Commissioner Lorraine Finlay raised further concerns about AI weaponry's compatibility with international humanitarian law, noting challenges related to the evolving nature of AI, which adapts based on experience. 

“Simply saying there is a human somewhere in the loop is not enough,” she said, urging for clear human authority in decision-making processes.

Currently, there are no regulations specifically governing lethal autonomous weapons. 

Finlay urged the Australian government to implement safeguards, citing Australia’s November 2023 vote supporting a UN resolution for global discussions on AI weapons. 

“We are hopeful this shows a shift in Australia’s position,” she noted.

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